Costa Blanca - A guide of what is on offer in 2013

By Simon Wright

This guide was written by myself as part of freelance work with Holiday Weather.  The first three months are below in full.  April - December links are at the bottom of this article, taking you to the HW website.

Beautiful beaches and wonderful weather are part of the Costa Blanca package

The Costa Blanca is still one of Europe’s most popular destinations for holidaymakers across the world.  There is a major influx of British tourists, from friendship groups and romantic couples, to business acquaintances and happy families who will pick their destination to be the Costa Blanca.  It is hard not to see why.

Also called ‘The White Coast,’ the area is full of sun, sea, sand and sangria.  There are some appetising restaurants to try, the buzzing nightlife needs to be sampled, and plenty of multicultural events that occur throughout the year.  There are many aspects that will make any visit to the Costa Blanca fun, but also relaxing and stress-free.

The Costa Blanca consists of 200 kilometres of coastline, and has some major hotspots for travellers to choose where to stay from.  Benidorm is the number one preferred destination, especially for families who want to see plenty of sunshine, and for the youngsters who are only interested in going to sample the party atmosphere when the sun sets.

There’s also Alicante, where the best beaches and wider location choice seems to be.  Alicante offers the blend of Spanish tradition, combined with 21^st century modernity.  Other smaller towns include Elche, Murcia, Torrevieja, Denia and Calpe.  The Costa Blanca isn’t far away either from the city of Valencia – Spain’s biggest after the heavyweights of Madrid and Barcelona.

The weather throughout the year is very consistent, with a warm and humid subtropical Mediterranean climate.  Average temperatures reach an excess of 20 degrees Celsius, with approximately 3,000 hours of sunshine per year.  In the past, there have been extreme weather conditions – ranging from flooding to tornadoes at sea, but these are rare occurrences.  Generally, the climate here is hot, warm and sunny.

January

Weather: The traditional weather for the Costa Blanca in January is settled, but distinctively cold in comparison to the hot and humid summer months.  With a temperature average of 11 degrees Celsius, and a potential low of five degrees Celsius during the day, January is the coldest month of the calendar year.  Sunshine hours peak at an average of six hours per day, with sea temperatures at 14 degrees Celsius. 

Attractions: The weather is not ideal for beach travellers, so January is a month for history enthusiasts to really come and see new parts of information which will be revealing.  A trip to Denia will take you to the Archaeological Museum which is located in two rooms known as ‘The Palace of the Governor.’  Built back in the 17^th century, the museum, established in 1957 offers not only great views of the port of Denia and the town itself, but also presents a range of materials in the field of archaeology.  This trip will take you through Denia’s development from its early origins right through to the 18^th century.

If visitors are not up for this trip, then head down to Elche for a journey into the small, but well exhibited Paleontological Museum.  The exhibits here are very informative, and have been kept in almost pristine condition.  Tourists can also take home some natural fossils and stones as part of their visit around this brilliant archaeological museum. 

Events: Traditionally, festivals and events are on the quiet side in January around the Costa Blanca.  The main festival is the Porrat de San Anton, which is an animal show and a local market that is held in one of the local’s favourite locations – the bullring.  This festival is named after the region’s Patron Saint of Alicante, San Anton.  It often takes place in mid-January.

Hotels: The choices of accommodation are endless around the Costa Blanca.  Tourists can take their choice from sky scraping hotels and luxury villas to urban bungalows.  Then, there is the decision of whether to go to a busy area where the majority of the action is, or somewhere more peaceful where noise won’t be an issue.

The Hotel Javea in Javea is a small hotel, but a cosy place to stay and has a proper family atmosphere to it.  Situated near the port of Javea, the hotel gets fairly busy in the height of summertime, but is much quieter in times like January.  The location of Hotel Javea is decent, with a marina facility nearby, although the nearest sand beach is at least 20 minutes walking distance away.  However, this is a chilled place to stay on your holiday to start the calendar year.

Hotel Fetiche in Benidorm is located in the older part of the town, and is a fine Bed and Breakfast location.  There are only 17 rooms, so it is a closely well-run place, with a continental breakfast as part of the package.  Rooms can be catered for with people who have disabilities, and the attention to detail of the customer’s stay makes this accommodation well worth to be considered by visitors.

The Casa La Differencia in Calpe does cater for all types of individual.  In the winter season, it welcomes everyone to its speciality inn, but between May and October, it becomes a place for gay people to come and stay at whilst on holiday.  No pets and children are allowed to stay here, and the price for staying in this residence includes free Wi-Fi, a daily newspaper and free drinks 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Altea might be a tiny village in the Costa Blanca, but the Melia Villa Gadea Beach Hotel is another luxurious choice.  It has to be when there are tennis courts available on site, along with five restaurants and three swimming pools.  This is one of the best stays at anytime of the year in the Costa Blanca.

Lastly, a quieter resort is the three-star Albir Garden Resort property in Albir.  This accommodation might be close to the nearest Albir beach, shops and bars, but it is a calmer town when pitted up against the likes of Benidorm, Alicante and Torrevieja.  That doesn’t mean to say nothing happens here.  Facilities including a top class gym, a volleyball court, entertainment all day and a heated indoor swimming pool throughout the winter season.

Beaches: January is not the traditional time of year to come and get a decent tan, despite the warmish temperatures in the Costa Blanca.  As a consequence, the beaches will be less busy than they would be in summer, but Javea’s La Grava beach is a good shingle beach to come and take a scenic walk at this time of year.  There is a superb restaurant to stop for food, and La Grava is close to the port of Javea.

Restaurants: The various restaurants do very well throughout the entire year in the Costa Blanca.  Two fine selections have a real local and European feel to them.

The La Sort restaurant in Alicante is a classy professional restaurant.  If the choice is to come here, the staff will make the experience of eating first-class very important.  They take customers seriously, but they would if toothbrushes are offered in the bathrooms.  The prices are expensive though, so only come if there is something to celebrate because then it can be done in style.

At a more modest price range is the Taberna Restaurante Carbon, based in La Nucia.  The views are glorious and the food isn’t bad either.  The restaurant is based on two floors, and the menu offers a fine choice of modern international food.  The speciality is Italian cuisine though, so giving a try to their pristine pasta or the popular pizzas wouldn’t go amiss.  This restaurant only opened two years ago, but has already become a favourite with many locals and travellers. 

Nightlife: It might be smaller than many of the heavyweight places around the Costa Blanca, but the northern part of the region is not dull at all.  Altea is part of the northern part of Costa Blanca and one of its top nightspots is the La Plaza.  La Plaza is a cocktail bar that will serve up all of the traditional favourites and the music buzz is a flavour between jazz and soul music.

Elsewhere, Lennon’s in Benidorm is often crowded at weekends and is a regular on the tour of exploring the Benidorm nightlife for regulars and newcomers.  Dance music is frequently played and this place is a huge favourite for the under-25s in the area.

February

Weather: As the year develops, the weather gets warmer in the Costa Blanca, but February’s averages are still only marginally better than January.  Those who want to see the sun will be more likely to see it for just an extra hour per day on standard terms.  At least rainfall levels remain low, with only four days of rain forecasted per month.  Sea temperatures stay at the same level as they did in January, with temperatures in the air reaching an annual high of 17 degrees Celsius.

Attractions: Another of the main museums to visit in the Costa Blanca is the MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum in Alicante.  This museum provides a great mix of archaeological artefacts and historical creation.  Having won international stardom as the European Museum of the Year nine years ago for the originality of the exhibits on display, the MARQ is in great company alongside other classical worldwide museums such as the Salzburg Museum in Austria and the National Railway Museum in the UK in York.

This is an intriguing trip, but so too is an excursion to the hugely popular fish market and auction over in Denia.  The locals enjoy their food in the Costa Blanca, and freshly prepared fish is amongst their favourite dishes.  Head to the port of Denia around mid-afternoon, and you will see the fisherman determined to complete their catches for the day.  When their business is complete, the fish captured are taken to La Lonja, so interested customers can see what is available before the start of the auction.  Ultimately, part of the fish captured will go to the lowest bidder in the auction (different to traditional English auctions), and the rest makes general sale for the public.  Even if fish is not a natural part of an everyday diet, this is something to indulge in as a spectator watching on.  

Events: In mid-February, there are major carnival festivities throughout the Alicante area of the Costa Blanca.  There are a number of parties which include colourful processions of decorated floats and the traditional burying of a sardine on Ash Wednesday.

Hotels: Situated in Elche, the Hotel Areca opened in 2006 and offers its guests with a serene and carefree environment.  Facilities include a free spa, private parking and a well-maintained terrace garden.  This is a modern place that is another choice that should be carefully thought about by business travellers.

From the modernisms of Areca to Hotel Buena Vista in Denia, this is of the classic brand.  This 19^th century mansion might have had a makeover since those days, but the majority of the rooms do offer a tremendous sea view and facilities for swimming, sauna and gym equipment.  It might look slightly outdated from the outside, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with the inside aspects of this stay.

Campsites are few and far between in Costa Blanca, but the main one is the Campsite Internacional La Marina.  Open all year to families, it will have regular deals that will offer mega savings for travellers.  The campground has 36 bungalows, all in different categories to cater for the types of individual and prices.  Entertainment includes a dedicated animation team who always is there to put a smile on the faces of holidaymakers, bicycle rental and an outdoor themed swimming lake.

One of the leading hostels in the Costa Blanca is Mont Royal, situated on the San Juan beach in Alicante.  The main amenities at this accommodation include a swimming pool and a Jacuzzi, with optional deals for those preferring a breakfast and lunch package.

The Coral Beach Apartments in Calpe are the place to be if the plan is to go on a family holiday on a self-catering basis.  This apartment is close to the shops, the beach and the restaurants, so there is plenty for everyone to remain content and occupied.

Beaches: Playa del Cura is the beach resort of Torrevieja, and while it is perhaps best to avoid it in summertime, due to the high population, it is great to go before June.  The beach is nice to sit down on, and offers the chance to reflect on a fantastic Costa Blanca stay, but water users should be warned – the sea here does have some stones on the seabed.

So, if it is exploring the sea that would win the holidaymaker over at this time of year, the Les Bassetes beach in Calpe is great company.  Conditions are almost faultless to learn how to sail to Olympic standard, and an underwater sea bed makes it perfect to practice some diving skills of your own.

Restaurants: The Aitona restaurant in Benidorm does some of the best paella around in the Costa Blanca.  Paella is the most common dish in Spain, and is enjoyed regularly by both foreign tourists and Spanish locals.  Grilled meat is served as an alternative.

Or head to the El Toro Steak House over in Benijofar.  This restaurant adopts a modern European style eating and drinking venue and takes a different feel to the regular steak house approach expected back at home.  Dutch steaks lead the way, and they have been especially imported from Holland to reach their new destination, and diners can even cook their own meat by deciding to choose the house speciality.

Nightlife: Benidorm Palace is a very professional show, even if the venue is looking like it could do with an extra coat of paint.  There are options to dine here, as well as enjoy an entertaining show full of cabaret acts and dancers.  The night is quite costly in terms of money, but goers shouldn’t be disappointed by the quality on offer.

Another relaxed setting is Clan Cabaret in Alicante.  Regular live music performances and live drama plays take place during the course of the year, and in the summer, it turns into disco fever, so the youngsters will still be attracted to this venue.

March

Weather: March is traditionally the first sign that springtime is on its way across Europe.  It is no exception in the Costa Blanca, with a temperature high peaking at 19 degrees Celsius.  This is only the warm-up though to the summer months, which is when the majority of British tourists and holidaymakers will be more likely to visit, due to the weather.  Sunset is past 7pm every evening, so it is surprising to see an average of seven sunshine hours per day, despite it being far lighter than darker at this time of year.  The average temperature this month is 15 degrees Celsius, that’s 58 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Attractions: Costa Blanca might have a host of attractions to tempt visitors, but if a day break is required, then the city of Valencia is not far away to visit.  Situated right at the heart of the Spanish Mediterranean coastline, Valencia offers a lot to do in just a day.  Those looking to sightsee could visit the many famous art galleries and museums on show, or take a long stroll along the beach.  Spain’s most common dish is of course paella, and this was first cooked up by chefs in Valencia.  It would be unwise to not try some paella in the tons of restaurants.  Sport fans might want to head near the atmospheric Mestalla Stadium, home to La Liga giants Valencia, or to the port of Valencia which was the home of sailing’s prestigious Americas Cup event and more recently, the European Formula One Grand Prix from 2008 to 2012.

The race in Valencia was won by Spanish F1 driver Fernando Alonso last season, and youngsters or the family can attempt to follow in the footsteps of one of Spain’s prodigal sons by competing at the Karting Alacant venue.  On offer are different types of go-karts for the kids and the adults, and there is often plenty of action on the circuit.  This would be a fun one-off opportunity to put all that computer games practice to practical use.

Events: Craft culture is the theme of the Alicante Cool Craft Market in early March.  These markets are located near the Alicante bullring in the Cultural Garden Las Cigarreras.  This event is regularly held over one weekend and allows locals to sell and exhibit their homemade goods.  This can include scrapbooks, stationery resources, illustrations and jewellery, made from a whole variety of different fabrics and materials.

In late March, the second Sea World exhibition will take place, and a massive range of activities is planned on the Esplanada of Lo Pagan.  This includes mud therapy demonstrations, permanent exhibitions by the Spanish Red Cross amongst others, guided tours of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography, and several competitive fish auctions.

 

Easter weekend falls at the end of March in 2013, so this is when Semana Santa takes place.  This is Holy Week across the whole of the Costa Blanca, in an event that will begin a week before Easter Sunday every year.  All towns and villages have processions throughout the week to mark Easter, with events in Murcia, Alicante and Orihuela leading the way when it comes to creating unforgettable scenes.

Hotels: The Oasis Albir Playa hotel in Albir is located in an area of tranquillity, despite the numerous shops that can be found in the vicinity.  All rooms have double beds, and some are lucky enough to have king-size beds.  A family friendly environment, this hotel caters for half-board, bed and breakfast and all inclusive visitors.

Meanwhile, with a beach close by, modern gym for guests to enjoy and a conference room, the Albahia Tennis and Business Hotel in Alicante is perfect for couples and business travellers to spend holiday time in the Costa Blanca.  With nine tennis courts to practice championship skills on, it isn’t bad for the recreational active types either.

The Huerto del Cura in Elche is a large hotel which is almost hidden away by some of the famous palm groves that attracts hundreds of visitors every year.  The gardens are luxurious, and the rooms set in neat and polished looking bungalows.

A poolside apartment up for rental use is based in El Pinet, close to the La Marina village.  El Pinet is a recent new development and this self-catering apartment is situated in a peaceful area, with all the standard equipment expected.  Available for the whole of spring and summer, and fantastic low prices for staying, El Pinet is an example of cheap and classy rental property. 

Located three kilometres away from the centre of El Campello, Hostal San Juan in Alicante is located opposite the popular San Juan beach.  With good transport links into the Alicante town, and a superb backdrop of a view, this is another fine choice of accommodation that differs from a standard hotel.

Beaches: The Moraira beach in Moraira has everything a traveller would need, and there is even a choice of relaxing on fine sand, or strolling slowly along the rocky, pebbly length of beach.  Not as overpopulated as many beaches, this is actually a hidden gem when it comes to thinking about staying in Moraira.

The Punta Prima Beach in Torrevieja is another golden beach that is often ignored by the regulars.  It might not be massive in size, but the local beach bar provides a high-quality selection of drinks, and offers great views of the area in general.

Restaurants: With an inviting atmosphere, the Cap Blanca restaurant in Moraira is a welcoming British restaurant in the Costa Blanca.  Every Sunday, there is a traditional roast dinner, with a choice of lamb, pork, beef or gammon for diners, and all food is homemade and freshly cooked.  This venue is perfect for a romantic meal or for somewhere to relax with family or friends.  Booking in advance is highly recommended to guarantee a table at Cap Blanca.

Over in Santa Pola, the tiny eating establishment of Casa Joaquin is dedicated to seafood and serves fresh food every single day.  For those with a real craving for fish, you will be in heaven by coming to Casa Joaquin.

Nightlife: Churchill’s pub in Benidorm is a true British favourite to visit.  A fun night out is a sure-fire definite by a wide raft of programme in terms of entertainment.  Sometimes, theme nights will be put on by the owners, and others will involve karaoke nights that won’t be judged properly on this occasion. It is almost like a place home from home.

For a more international feel, the Pacha nightclub is the best for a great night out in Torrevieja.  The place is always buzzing with youngsters and the music is provided by an excellent line-up regularly of international and Spanish DJs.

April - December

For those who want to read on about the top accommodation, nightlife, beaches and attractions throughout the year in the Costa Blanca, click on the following links for the highlights from April - December.

Costa Blanca April

Costa Blanca May

Costa Blanca June

Costa Blanca July

Costa Blanca August

Costa Blanca September

Costa Blanca October

Costa Blanca November

Costa Blanca December

Categories: Alicante, Britain, Costa Blanca, Elche, Europe, Murcia, Spain, Temperature, Tourists, Weather

Auckland – A guide to what’s on offer in 2013

By Simon Wright

Auckland offers a spectacular backdrop when the sun sets

With 32 per cent of the country’s population, the city of Auckland in New Zealand has plenty of stunning sightseeing locations, a settled and lovely climate, and some wonderful accommodation that makes visitors feel like they are at home.

Popular with locals and tourists, Auckland provides the perfect setting for some cultural festivals, along with some addictive hobbies, and the right blend of tradition and modernity.

There is no extreme weather climate, and as New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, it experiences opposites in weather to what is seen in the Northern Hemisphere. 

This means that summer is at the start of the year, and winter arrives in July/August time, a period where it is meant to be warmer in the north. 

January

The Southern Hemisphere is in the midst of its summer during the month of January, and Auckland in New Zealand is no exception. With breathtakingly beautiful scenery, loads of fun-packed activities to keep people busy and appealing weather, Auckland is a great place for a memorable holiday. Sunshine is prevalent in Auckland during this time of year, and 14 hours of daylight can be expected. Temperatures normally hover around 22 degrees Celsius, a couple of degrees above the usual January average. The weather is warm and sunny, while the sea water temperature sits at 32 Fahrenheit, as it does all year. So, it means that the temperature is very ideal for a gentle soak, rather than an endurance swim.

Accommodation wise, one of the best places to stay at all-year round is the Hotel DeBrett.  This hotel is right in the heart of the city centre. Style and class are the two main aims of this carefree environment. It is the perfect location to be near the wide choice of delicious restaurants and bars of Viaduct Harbour, and is surrounded by theatres and art galleries. Also, there is nearby facilities for swimming, sailing, tennis and golf. A good alternative choice would be the SKYCITY Hotel for those who prefer sticking to a budget. This accommodation offers plenty of space, and is seriously good value for money.   

Always bustling with events, Auckland is no exception in January. Top of the bill is the Auckland Seafood Festival in Halsey Wharf. Whether this event is for a regular visitor or a newcomer, the Auckland Anniversary Weekend becomes even tastier after this experience. This festival is the ultimate party when it comes to seafood, a popular pastime in New Zealand. It won’t just be the food, with a wide selection of entertainers performing, plus the chance to enjoy local beers and wines.

February

The weather climate in February is fairly stable in Auckland in comparison to January. In fact, visitors to this destination will be more likely to experience an extra hour of sunshine than they would in January, and two less days of rainfall. The average temperature in the month is once again 20 degrees Celsius, the same average as January’s temperature. Humidity in the area is at 75 per cent for the month. The nights are mild, and it is this time of year where the love of water sports, a favourite hobby with many locals really shines through.

What Auckland doesn’t lack is the vast amount of accommodation destinations available to the visitors of the country. Each hotel varies in facilities and star quality, to hotel cost and customer service. For those who want to stay in the area, and not have to pay astronomical prices, one suggestion is the Nomads Auckland on Fort Street. The Nomads Auckland is a historic building which embraces style and is an easy place to relax for travellers. The atmosphere is friendly within the hostel, and it is located closely to both the main train station and the Viaduct Harbour, meaning getting around to different places is easy. With average prices starting at £35 a night, this is one of the best around should you be looking for cheap, but fantastic accommodation.

The main event in February to experience is the Auckland Lantern Festival, which takes place in Albert Park across the final Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the month. It is a weekend for all the family which sees China invade New Zealand for three days. Auckland’s 14^th annual Lantern Festival sees the locals be entertained by classical music groups, amazing lantern decorations and some Shanghai acrobatics. 2013 is the Chinese New Year of the Snake, and any excuse for a party is well worth it for this occasion. 

March

March sees summer end in New Zealand and autumn begin. The average temperature drops a degree from February, to 19 degrees Celsius in March. The start of a new season means the amount of average rainfall increases in Auckland. Two extra days of rain is the average in March, and the amount of rainfall increases to 40mm. Despite the slender drop in temperature, there is still plenty of sunshine, and the cooler environment does lead to some magnificent scenery as the leaves begin to change colour on the trees.

A good choice of accommodation in March would be the City Towers resort in Central Auckland. With generally excellent reviews from previous visitors, this apartment complex offers 33 rooms, some with newly refurbished studio and garden apartments. A friendly staff within the complex will make sure that any issue will be solved. It really does feel like a place away from home.

The stars of world speedway will visit in March

The month of March provides plenty of events. Two standouts really will whet the appetite for those who like a good time, or prefer their sport. In late March, the cream of world speedway visit Auckland for the FIM Speedway Grand Prix at Western Springs. Featuring four world champions in the 2013 field, including double champion, American Greg Hancock, who won the inaugural Grand Prix on this track. Speedway provides plenty of thrills and excitement for the spectators, along with some tremendous action from the world’s finest. On the same day (23 March), the New Zealand Beer Festival, a sell-out in 2012, returns with top focus being an exciting entertainment line-up that is yet to be announced. It also gives the chance for all visitors to try out 125 local beers and ciders. This event is one of the best to mix beer, music and food together.

April

April sees a climate in Auckland that is static to what March produces. Although the country is still in autumn, daily sunshine hours are higher at this time of the year than what they would be in the summer months of January and February. With an average of nine hours per day, this means that it is still a beautiful time of year to swim, especially with the consistency of the sea temperatures. Despite the increased sunshine tourists will likely experience in April, the spread of average rainfall increases to 15 days a month. New Zealand’s general precipitation is actually relatively high, with between 640mm to 1500mm evenly spread throughout a calendar year.

April’s choice of accommodation will put tourists near the tranquil harbour setting on Quay Street. The Copthorne Hotel is right on the waterfront and offers one of the best views you can get of the harbour. All rooms offer broadband internet for those who can’t stay away from social media while on a deserved break and a wide choice of drink, from tea and coffee making facilities to the tempting mini bar. The Copthorne Hotel offers easy access into the shopping district, while The Tactics Bar inside the venue is one of the best to get together before sampling the enthusiasm of a great Auckland night out. This is the place to stay if landscape and setting are near the top of your list when thinking about accommodation preferences.

   

On the entertainment front, it is music concerts that lead the April highlights. The legendary Bryan Adams returns to New Zealand for two special music performances, and one of them will be in Auckland. Adams has sold over 65 million records in the past 15 years, and is one of the most established names in the music business. This will be his first performance in New Zealand in 15 years, as he will perform his highly praised ‘Bare Bones’ acoustic tour. If Bryan Adams can’t get people excited, Black Sabbath surely must. One of heavy metal’s most famous bands will be performing their first New Zealand show in nearly 40 years, including Ozzy Osbourne – Mr. Prince of Darkness. To complete a real nostalgic feel to the month, the ‘Shutter’ exhibition finishes in April – so don’t miss the chance to go through a history of iconic cameras. See where photography started from the very beginning to today’s digital age at the Museum of Transport & Technology.

May

Sunshine is a predominant nature of the annual climate in Auckland

As autumn starts to reach its conclusion, the amount of sunshine hours does increase, but the average temperature starts to drop rapidly. An average high temperature in May of 17 degrees Celsius is considerably lower than the 20 degrees Celsius, 68 degrees Fahrenheit in April. The average rainfall increases in the month from 40mm to 50mm, spread across 17 days in the month – more than 50 per cent. The average humidity in Auckland climbs up to 85 per cent during May, which is the joint highest in the calendar year.

One of the smaller accommodation venues is Mollies, but that doesn’t mean to say that this is a bad thing. It might only hold 13 rooms, but is highly recommended for romantic couples who want to get away from it all to Auckland. Within this venue is a breakfast service which is second to none, and some interesting and creative artist work.

In comparison to some other months in 2013, May’s entertainment is quieter despite a range of classes that actually take place throughout the year. One of the main highlights is the Auckland Writers & Readers Festival at the Aotea Centre. The festival will welcome over 100 international and local writers in a variation of lectures and group discussions, and is an event not to be missed by literature lovers and fiction book anoraks. 

June

As the world enters the halfway mark of an annual year, New Zealanders get prepared for their winter which provides a mixture of glorious sunshine, along with some heavy rain showers. The average temperature in June drops to 12 degrees Celsius, two degrees lower than what it is likely to be in May. The lowest average temperature in May falls below double figures to nine degrees Celsius. With Auckland in the north of the country, more rainfall is expected throughout the winter months, due to its geographical location. However, the average rainfall in June of 50mm is exactly the same as it is in May.

New Zealand and Auckland itself is a popular location for backpackers, and one of the best places to stay for this type of person is the eco-friendly City Lodge Accommodation which is walking distance from the main City Hall. Built as recently as 2005, this hostel will provide the room basics, such as high-speed internet access and refrigerators, but is one of the best accommodation venues for value, and keep visitors right at the heart of the city.

One of June’s leading events takes place at Queen Street. The Auckland Theatre Company looks more into the life and legacy of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. This isn’t just a celebration of her life, but also a shrewd look into her ideas during the Tudor days. Historical lovers must see this, while the more creative individuals should check out The Auckland Art & Craft Fair, which takes place again this year – three years after a show-stopping debut.

July

The average amount of rainfall in Auckland increases to 60mm during the month of July, which is the wettest month of an annual year. Despite the added rainfall, sunshine hours remain at an average of 10 hours per day. The winter months in New Zealand can bring snow to the areas, although this is more restricted to the mountainous areas rather than further inland. Sea temperatures remain at the same during the year, although the time for regular swimming has disappeared by now.

Those who need to experience a holiday whilst sticking to a tight budget should consider staying at the Quality Hotel Parnell. This hotel is a basic, but nice atmosphere for the family to stay in, while enjoying everything what Auckland has to offer, and is a short walk to the Parnell district, which is full of shops and restaurants. 

July’s main event is the 2013 UCI BMX World Championships. This event is the finale of the world championship season, and is a non-stop spectacle of belting action and inevitably, some dramatic crashes. The world’s best BMX riders will be in attendance for the first time in New Zealand. A popular Olympic event, you could see some of the stars to look out for at the Rio Olympics in 2016.

August

July is on average, the coldest month of the year and the time when the most rainfall occurs. By the time August comes round, the winter season is coming to an end. Therefore, it is the perfect time for keen recreational addicts to take to the mountains and experience the thrill of skiing. For those who prefer a lovely landscape, scenic beauty is at its finest in winter, with mountains and glaciers covered in snow making the area a picturesque dream. As far as weather is concerned in Auckland, the highest average temperature increases by one degree to 15 degrees Celsius, and the amount of average sunlight reaches 11 hours.

If going away means you want to appreciate true modernity, staying at the Auckland Takapuna Oaks is close enough to total bliss. This new five-star location features some world class views of the captivating Auckland waterfront, alongside furnished balconies and even docks for I-Pods. 97 per cent of guests recommend staying here on Expedia, and it is hard not to disagree with them, when complimentary benefits include ferry tickets and continental breakfasts. There are plenty of great benefits to staying at this accommodation choice.

August begins with New Zealand’s national food and wine event, The Food Show. As well as visiting Wellington and Christchurch, The Food Show stops off in Auckland, providing a mixture of cracking chefs showing off their culinary skills, and promotion of a degree of the latest gadgets that can be used in the kitchen. Plus everyone can come to try out a mammoth range of delicious international and local foods, smooth and rich coffees, and wines that have the flavour and thirsting quench.

September

Springtime arrives in Auckland in September, and not only does it see the signs of green leaves and flowers growing in the countryside, it sees the climate start to pick up. However, New Zealand’s general spring weather still can attract the opposite ends of the spectrum. For example, it can be cold and frosty on one day, to being sunny and hot the very next. While the temperatures only gradually start to pick up, the amount of sunshine expected in a normal day increases to an impressive 11 hours, and the rainfall average drops down from 50mm to 40mm.

On Hobson Street is the Heritage Auckland hotel which offers a carefree approach towards life. It isn’t as modernised as some hotels within the vicinity, but the quality artwork on the walls makes up for that, and with room service, a swimming pool and good money value thrown in; this place does offer a chilled approach towards any kind of holiday.

Top dog in September’s event highlights in Auckland is the Auckland Pet & Animal Expo. Held at a new venue of the ASB Showgrounds in Greenlane, the promise is for the 2013 extravaganza to be even “bigger and better.” In attendance will be hundreds of pet products, alongside attractions and demonstrations that will grab the attention for everyone. This is the main attraction for those crazy about animals, but the visiting public are not allowed to bring their own pets.

October

October sees a warmer and more settled climate for the Auckland region, with consistent sunshine levels and temperatures beginning to return to the height they would be in the Kiwi summer. Average temperature in October in Auckland is approximately 15 degrees Celsius or 58 degrees Fahrenheit. On sunny days, the temperature could reach 17 or 18 degrees. Those who are into their white water rafting, October is the right time to visit the bustling harbour and peaceful lakes. The snow melts frequently and this makes river water levels spectacularly and thrillingly high. Average humidity is still at 80 per cent, only five per cent lower than the highest levels during the year.   

Auckland offers a brilliant range of accommodation which caters for all kinds of traveller. Another popular choice is the Stadium Waldorf Apartments Hotel. A hotel near the Auckland waterfront, this stay could be the one for those who like to train, with a swimming pool and an indoor fitness centre. This is another location that is walking distance to many restaurants and supermarkets in the area, and offers all-day comfort and a modernised feel to all tourists.

In October, the legendary classical artist Andre Rieu is returning Down Under, and he will be performing in Auckland on 25 October. His 2011 tour was ranked by Billboard as the ninth highest grossing tour of that year, just behind the more recognised Lady Gaga. On a global scale, Rieu and his impressively tuned 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra have received 330 platinum awards and sold over 32 million albums. These figures definitely show that people find him an easy artist to listen to. Auckland visitors can get the chance to enjoy a comforting and peaceful evening at the opera. For those who prefer to head to Auckland to conduct business, check out the Business Opportunities and Franchise Expo. Having served the community for 18 years, this is an important expo for the business industry, and those visiting can get sound and insightful advice on investing, especially in an economic crisis that doesn’t seem to be getting any easier for the majority of us.

November

If you like your sunshine for a holiday break, make Auckland your destination to visit in November. On hot days, the amount of sunshine will be 11 hours on average, and often will be more than that. The average temperatures still hover around the 16 degrees Celsius mark, but higher temperatures would be expected at the end of spring in Auckland. With the settled sea temperature levels during the year, November is the month where the swimmers return for their leisurely or sometimes, competitive swims. 

There is plenty of luxury in terms of Auckland accommodation

Connected to the Auckland Convention Centre, the Rendezvous Grand Hotel is very close to the buzzing nightlife of Karangahape Road, and is near enough to get around and explore the vast array of shops. The hotel itself is an ideal destination to stay for those who are doing business in the city, or enjoy the leisure activities. With a 25 metre indoor swimming pool, sauna and health club, fitness fans will be blessed, and it is a great location for either a quick stopover or for an enjoyable holiday.

The Auckland Highland Games always offer a sense of atmosphere, on a day where Scotland is the main theme of the day. This one-day event at the Three Kings Reserve will have a wide choice of food stalls, clothing and jewellery – combined with Highland sports and games, drummers and of course, kilts. This is the perfect day for any Scot to be here. You don’t need to Visit Scotland, Visit the Auckland Highland Games instead!

December

While most families will prefer staying at home for Christmas in the UK, others prefer to get away to hotter destinations for the festive season. December marks the start of the Southern Hemisphere summer season, so if New Zealand is the preferred destination for an individual or family, scorching temperatures and sunshine are almost certain to be a guarantee. The beaches get packed with swimmers, water sport lovers and those who just want to get a decent proper tan. In Auckland, high temperatures are likely to peak at 21 degrees Celsius, while the amount of rainfall is reduced to 30mm a month – a small figure when New Zealand’s precipitation figures are considered.

At Christmas time, the majority of us like to enjoy the traditional food cravings of turkey and roast potatoes. If that’s the case, you will be spoilt for choice at The Langham, which is within 1km of Albert Park and the University of Auckland. There are four types of room available, along with a day spa, and a food menu to really get you hungry. The Eight Restaurant offers eight international kitchens, and the chance to sample many worldwide cuisines, from Japanese and Chinese, to Indian and French.

While in Auckland, make sure to get out on the water. There are activities aplenty in the summer months, from peaceful harbour cruises to those who prefer the adrenaline buzz of the Auckland Adventure Jet on the popular Waitemata Harbour. If two wheels is your preferred method of travel, then hire a bike for a day, and take a pleasurable ride along the glorious waterfront, or head for the bustling Waiheke region. Also while in town, enjoy a variety of quality music at the welcomed Acoustic Song & Music session. Held every Monday at the Thirsty Dog and with free admission for all ages, everyone is welcomed to come and listen or even play songs from all kinds of genres. While it is summer weather in this region, it is Christmas time too in Auckland.

Categories: Auckland, Holiday, July, Museum, New Zealand, Southern Hemisphere, Speedway, Technology, Temperature, Weather